Saudi Arabia Football federation denies the reports of sports minister punishing the players

The Saudi Arabia football federation has denied the reports of punishing the players. The reports were followed by their 5-0 thrashing against the host nation Russia and sports minister pointing out some players for the humiliation.

Saudi Arabia played their first match of World cup against the host nation Russia, who thrashed them in a 5 goal extravaganza in the opening match. Shortly after, it was reported that members of Saudi Arabia team will face a disciplinary penalty imposed by the Saudi Football Federation chief Adel Ezzat after they were outplayed by Russia.

The Saudi Arabian football federation came forward today and denied the reports about sports minister Turki al-Sheikh pointing out some players and take alleged disciplinary action after their 5-0 defeat in the starting fixture of the world cup. They also confirmed that the minister is willing to accept the responsibility for the loss.

"We did everything we could for the team's players: we have covered their expenses for three years, we hired the best coaching team and a world-class coach... This is the reality that we must accept, these are their abilities and capabilities," al-Sheikh said on his Twitter account.

Earlier it was reported that three players of the Saudi Arabian side including the forward Mohammad al-Sahlawi, defender Osama Hawsawi and goalkeeper Abdullah al-Mayouf will possibly be rebuked of the loss against the host nation. The players were accused of humiliating the team and their skill levels in the world stage were questioned.

Saudi Arabian side impressed the footballing fans with their passing skills and short cameo displays. But their overall performance in the match highlighted the loopholes in their defensive line.

Saudi Arabia will face South American giants Uruguay in their second group stage fixture who managed to pull a late goal to secure a win against Egypt.

Saudi Arabia Football federation denies the reports of sports minister punishing the players Description:The Saudi Arabia football federation has denied the reports of punishing the players. The reports were followed by their 5-0 thrashing against the host nation Russia and sports minister pointing out some players for the humiliation. Times Now